Great Dane History & Breed Development Great Dane History & Breed Development "A courageous powerful hunter, capable of great speed and swift attack!" As portrayed by Great Dane history, the Dane of old is certainly not the affectionate companion of today, yet it still maintains some physical traits and instincts of its ancestors. Great Dane history from the 14th century forward reveals that the early Dane was a courageous powerful hunter, capable of great speeds and swift attack. This muscular dog was developed primarily in England and Germany by combining speed of the Greyhound, with the muscle and strength of the English Mastiff. Many canine historians further link the Irish Wolfhound to early breed lineage as depicted by ancient Great Dane history. See related articles at our "Great Dane Breed Introduction" main page for additional info on ancient Great Dane history. Europe's Wild Boar were the most powerful, savage, and well-armed of the Continent's big game. To tackle this animal, the Germans needed a dog that was fast, agile, strong, and super tough. That is exactly what they created with the early Dane, a super Boar Hound. Ear cropping soon followed as many dogs would suffer shredded ears from the razor sharp tusks of the wild Boar.

Cropped ears were originally cut short and pointy, unlike the long show cut often seen today. These days ear cropping has become a very controversial subject and ironically, it is now illegal in Europe. Boar hounds of the past were physically different in size and structure than today's Great Dane. As detailed by Great Dane history, the early Dane dog was shorter, heavier, stocky and more muscular, resembling a Mastiff rather than a Great Dane as we know them. About the mid 1600's, these super Hounds were being bred in great numbers. Many German noblemen would take the biggest, most intimidating dogs and keep them at their estates. These select dogs would enjoy the spoils of noble life and were referred to as Kammerhunde, or Chamber Dogs. Wearing collars lined with velvet, this era of Great Dane history began the metamorphosis of the breed from mighty hunter, to companion and protector. In 1880, a meeting was held in Berlin where judges and breeders agreed that the German breed was now distinctly different, taller, leaner, and more chiselled than the imported English Mastiffs. Over time, importing Mastiffs ceased and the Germans now concentrated on there own newly recognized breed.

More similar in appearance to the Great Dane of today, this breed was named "Deutsche Dogge", or "German Dog". The Deutsche Doggen Club of Germany was founded, and the new breed name spread across Europe. Germany was proud of its Great Dane history, in 1876, the Deutsche Dogge was elected the Country's National dog. Interestingly, the name "Grand Danois" was given by French naturalist Comte de Buffon during his travels in Denmark. French were also calling it Dogue Allemand, or "German Mastiff." Although the Danish made no contribution to the breeds development, for some reason the name stuck. Today's Great Dane Over time and through selective breeding, Great Danes have been transformed from the fierce hunting dogs depicted by Great Dane history, into the regal, chiselled, well-mannered Giants we know and love today. Some dogs can still be found in Germany pacing the grounds of estates and mansions. Germans take great pride in their Danes which are locally referred to as "German Mastiff", or "Deutsche Dogge". Although classified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a working breed dog, today's Great Dane is primarily a companion animal.

"With great confidence a Great Dane remains calm and respectful, even in a classroom full of admiring fourth graders" In addition to companion dog, the Great Dane is also often used for therapy and service work. The gentle confidence the breed exhibits helps it remain calm and easy even among large groups of people. This solid sturdy giant also serves well as an assistance dog. A Dane's well-mannered personality, along with its tall, sturdy foundation, make it a wonderful candidate to assist people with mobility problems. There are some clubs that run Great Danes in agility trails and lure coursing. An occasional Dane dog has even been know to excel in schutzhund training yet I wouldn't recommend it. For my family and me excel as companions :) Great Dane Dog Breed Information Tendency toward a tolerance for cats and a lower prey drive. 3 stars Child Friendly Dogs that tend to be more sturdy, playful and easygoing around children and more tolerant of children's behavior. 3 stars Tendency to enjoy or tolerate other dogs. 3 stars Level of daily activity needed. 2 stars Amount of bathing, brushing, even professional grooming needed. 1 star Level of health issues a breed tends to have. 4 stars A dog's thinking and problem-solving ability (not trainability).

3 stars How lighthearted and spirited a dog tends to be. 2 stars Amount and frequency of dog hair shedding. 3 stars Preferred amount of interaction with other pets and humans. 4 stars Tendency to be welcoming to new people. 3 stars A dog's inclination to be protective of his home, yard or even car. 5 stars Level of ease in learning something new and a willingness to try new things. 3 stars A breed that is likely to alert you to the presence of strangers. 5 stars Overview Did You Know? Great Danes have appeared in a variety of films, but far and away the best is the 1965 Disney film “The Ugly Dachshund,” about a Dane puppy who is raised with Doxies -- and thinks he’s one of them. A must-see for Great Dane lovers. As puppies, Great Danes can knock over small tables and large children. As adults they can clear a coffee table with a swipe of a tail. Although he may sometimes seem like a bull in a china shop, the biggest thing about the Great Dane isn’t his formidable size (up to 175 pounds), but his heart.

He may have been bred to hunt ferocious boars and guard estates, but these days, this tall and elegant dog is better suited to life as a lover, not a fighter. If you’re looking for a gentle giant, this may well be the dog for you. His size may seem to require its own zip code, but the Dane’s calm nature makes him more suitable to apartment living than many a more anxious or active breed. While puppyhood may be a challenge in an apartment, a well-socialized and well-trained Dane will be perfectly content to have one good 10 or 20-minute walk a day for his exercise. Because Great Danes have protective natures when their families are involved, it’s essential to teach young dogs not to jump up on people and that nipping or any act of aggression is not allowed. What tends to be laughed off in a tiny dog is no laughing matter in a full-grown dog of this size. Let the Dane’s size itself serve as a deterrent and never encourage aggressive behavior. While most Great Danes aren't nuisance barkers, if allowed to develop barking as a habit, they’ll have what's probably the loudest, deepest, most far-carrying bark of any canine.

(There’s a reason that a Great Dane led the Twilight Bark to get the news of missing puppies into the countryside in the classic movie “101 Dalmatians.”) Many Great Danes have cropped ears, but that look seems to be on the wane, even in the show ring, where “natural ears” are now allowed. While there are still people who defend this cosmetic procedure, ear cropping has no benefit to the dog whatsoever, and it is a painful fashion that most of the civilized world has outlawed. As for grooming, Dane owners get off relatively easy. The short coat is easy to care for, although the Dane does shed and it can seem like a lot of hair since he’s a lot of dog. What you'll save on grooming bills you'll more than spend on food, since these giant dogs need a lot of fuel, particularly when they're growing. Although overfeeding is not healthy for any dog, it’s especially important in a Great Dane puppy since rapid growth can contribute to skeletal problems including arthritis. Put aside extra time for clean-up, by the way, since much of what goes in must come out, in rather alarming quantities. Other Fun Facts The Great Dane’s height and weight place him among the largest breeds.

Only the Irish Wolfhound is taller, and a few Mastiffs may outweigh him. Teach puppies never to jump on people. This giant breed is apartment-friendly because of his quiet, inactive nature, but before you move him into a place with stairs, think about how you would get him in and out if he were injured or ill and couldn’t manage them on his own. The Great Dane’s coat colors include brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin (white with black patches) and mantle (black and white with a solid black “blanket” over the body). The Great Dane is easy to groom, but he does shed. He also drools, so get in the habit of carrying a hand towel to wipe up slobber. Great Danes are flatulent, but they give you someone to blame your own emissions on. History The History of Great Danes The Great Dane originated not in Denmark, as you might think, but in Germany, where he is known as the Deutsche Dogge. Breeds in his background are thought to include the Irish Wolfhound , from whom he gets his height, the Mastiff , who contributed heft, and the Greyhound , responsible for his sleek physique.

He was designed to hunt boar and at the time was as ferocious as his tusked adversary. Later, he was often found as an estate guardian. In 1876 the Great Dane was named the national dog of Germany, but he came to be appreciated in other countries as well, including the United States. Today, the Great Dane ranks 17 th among the breeds registered by the American Kennel Club, up from 28 th in 2000. With his gentle nature and giant stature, it’s no wonder that many people love this interesting dog. Personality Great Dane Temperament and Personality The Great Dane is often described as a gentle giant, but he is naturally protective when the situation calls for it. He is affectionate and loves people, and those qualities should never be perverted by encouraging aggressive behavior. Great Danes love children, but they must learn how to be gentle around them. And one swipe of that wagging tail will knock a toddler over, so it’s important to supervise their interactions. These big dogs can also learn to get along with other pets, especially when they are raised with them. A fenced yard is necessary to keep the Great Dane from going out for a stroll on his own.

He’s not typically a jumper, so a six-foot fence should be enough to keep him contained. Be aware that while adult Great Danes are pretty laid back, puppies are highly active and enjoy digging and other “landscaping.” You might think the Great Dane is best suited to life outdoors because of his enormous size, but just the opposite is true. He should be an indoor dog who is part of the family. When that is the case, the Great Dane is loving, learns well, and housetrains easily. Left to his own devices, the amount of destruction he can do to your home and yard is beyond imagination. Don’t let him enlighten you. Any dog, no matter how nice, can develop obnoxious levels of barking, digging, countersurfing and other undesirable behaviors if he is bored, untrained, or unsupervised. And any dog can be a trial to live with during adolescence. In the case of the Great Dane, the “teen” years can start at six months and continue until the dog is about two years old. Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him.

Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus ) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed. Talk to the breeder, describe exactly what you’re looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. The perfect Great Dane doesn’t spring fully formed from the whelping box. He’s a product of his background and breeding. Look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppyhood.

Health What You Need to Know About Great Dane Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don’t walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. The Great Dane is prone to a host of health problems . Here’s a brief rundown of what you should know. Among the conditions that can affect the Great Dane is bloat, a condition in which the stomach expands with air. This can become the more serious condition, gastric torsion, if the stomach twists on itself, cutting off the blood supply. This is as grave an emergency as you'll ever face with your dog, and immediate surgery is the only thing that can save his life. The Internet is full of home remedies and suggestions for how to avoid that expensive trip to the emergency hospital. Ignore them and head for the veterinarian if you want to save your dog.

Before surgery, ask about having your dog's stomach tacked, a procedure that will prevent it from twisting again in the future. Nearly all dogs that bloat once will do so again, and that surgery can save your dog's life. In fact, many Great Dane owners have it done routinely on all their dogs as a preventive measure. Also known as gastric dilation-volvulus, gastric torsion is the number one killer of Danes, and they bloat more often than any other breed. According to a Journal of the AVMA study reported in 2000, 5.3 percent of Great Danes exhibited GDV every year of the study. This condition may be at least partly genetic, but there is no screening test for bloat at this time. Your puppy's breeder should be able to give you an idea of how many close relatives of his parents have bloated in the past; the fewer such animals in your puppy's ancestry, the better. Great Danes also suffer from a high incidence of cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle resulting in an enlarged heart. This is very common in many giant dogs, and when it occurs late in life, it is often manageable with medication.

Have your dog's heart checked at least once a year, and have any murmurs or unusual symptoms investigated by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist. This condition may be genetic as well, but the testing currently available can only clear the dog for the time being; a dog could test clear one day and develop heart disease the next. Great Danes can also suffer from hip dysplasia , a crippling malformation of the hip socket that may require costly surgery to repair and that can result in painful arthritis later in life. Another genetic problem with an imperfect screening test, the best prevention for hip dysplasia at this time is to only buy a puppy whose parents both tested with normal hips who have very few close relatives with the disease. Keeping your dog lean, particularly when he's young, can also help. Another painful bone condition is hypertrophic osteodystrophy, occurring during the rapid growth phase of puppyhood. Ask your veterinarian about puppy foods for large breed dogs. These diets are formulated to help the puppies grow slowly, which can help prevent developmental orthopedic problems. Cancer is another leading cause of death in Great Danes, particularly bone cancer. They are also prone to a number of other skeletal, vision and neurological problems, both major and minor.

Great Dane vet bills, like the dogs themselves, tend to be very, very large. Not all of these conditions are detectable in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether an animal will be free of these maladies, which is why you must find a reputable breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. They should be able to produce independent certification that the parents of the dog (and grandparents, etc.) have been screened for common defects and deemed healthy for breeding. That’s where health registries come in. Before individual Great Danes can be included in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) database, the Great Dane Club of America requires them to have a hip evaluation from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) or PennHIP; a clearance from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation; an OFA thyroid evaluation from an approved laboratory; and a cardiac evaluation from OFA or the ACVIM Registry of Cardiac Health (ARCH). Breeders must agree to have all test results, positive or negative, published in the CHIC database.

A dog need not receive good or even passing scores on the evaluations to obtain a CHIC number, so CHIC registration alone is not proof of soundness or absence of disease, but all test results are posted on the CHIC website and can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents. If the breeder tells you she doesn't need to do those tests because she's never had problems in her lines and her dogs have been "vet checked," then you should go find a breeder who is more rigorous about genetic testing. Careful breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic disease and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas and a puppy develops one of these diseases despite good breeding practices. Advances in veterinary medicine mean that in most cases the dogs can still live a good life. If you’re getting a puppy, ask the breeder about the ages of the dogs in her lines and what they died of. Remember that after you’ve taken a new puppy into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Great Dane at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to extend his life.

Make the most of your preventive abilities to help ensure a healthier dog for life. Grooming The Basics of Great Dane Grooming The Great Dane has a short, thick, smooth coat. It sheds moderately -- in other words, more than you might think -- but requires little grooming. Brush the Dane weekly with a rubber hound mitt or soft bristle brush to keep the hair and skin healthy. In spring and fall, he will have a heavy shed, known as “blowing out” the coat and will need to be brushed more frequently during that time to get rid of all the loose hair. Bathe the Dane as you desire or only when he gets dirty. With the gentle dog shampoos available now, you can bathe a Dane weekly if you want without harming his coat. The rest is basic care. Trim the toenails every few weeks. Long nails can get caught on things and tear off. That’s really painful, and it will bleed a lot. Brush the teeth frequently for good dental health . To prevent ear infections, keep the ears dry and clean, using a cleaning solution recommended by your veterinarian.

Finding Finding a Great Dane Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind. Choosing a Great Dane Breeder Finding a good breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy, and will without question have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems as much as is possible. He or she is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than in making big bucks. Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances and what the dogs are like to live with and come right back at you with questions of their own about what you’re looking for in a dog and what kind of life you can provide for him. A good breeder can tell you about the history of the breed, explain why one puppy is considered pet quality while another is not, and discuss what health problems affect the breed and the steps she takes take to avoid those problems. Embark on your search for a Great Dane puppy at the Web site of the Great Dane Club of America , which maintains a list of its member breeders.

Your puppy's breeder should be a member in good standing and have agreed to abide by its Code of Ethics , which prohibits the sale of puppies to or through pet stores. Look for a breeder who is active in some form of canine activity such as dog shows or obedience. She should also have written documentation that your puppy's parents were cleared of genetic problems, including hip certification from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the University of Pennsylvania (PennHip); heart health certification by a board-certified cardiologist and OFA; thyroid clearance from OFA; and eye clearance within the previous year from the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). Besides screening breeding dogs for genetic diseases, good breeders sell only with a written contract and guarantee a home for any dog they breed if the owner becomes unable to keep him. Choose a breeder who is not only willing but insists on being a resource in helping you train and care for your new dog. Avoid breeders who only seem interested in how quickly they can unload a puppy on you and whether your credit card will go through.

You should also bear in mind that buying a puppy from websites that offer to ship your dog to you immediately can be a risky venture, as it leaves you no recourse if what you get isn’t exactly what you expected. Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run. Many reputable breeders have websites, so how can you tell who’s good and who’s not ? Red flags include puppies always being available, multiple litters on the premises, having your choice of any puppy, and the ability to pay online with a credit card. Those things are convenient, but they are almost never associated with reputable breeders. Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that old adage “let the buyer beware”. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations.

There’s no 100% guaranteed way to make sure you’ll never purchase a sick puppy, but researching the breed (so you know what to expect), checking out the facility (to identify unhealthy conditions or sick animals), and asking the right questions can reduce the chances of heading into a disastrous situation. And don’t forget to ask your veterinarian, who can often refer you to a reputable breeder, breed rescue organization, or other reliable source for healthy puppies. The cost of a Great Dane puppy varies depending on his place of origin, whether he is male or female, what titles his parents have, and whether he is best suited for the show ring or a pet home. The puppy you buy should have been raised in a clean home environment, from parents with health clearances and conformation (show) titles to prove that they are good specimens of the breed. Puppies should be temperament tested, vetted, dewormed, and socialized to give them a healthy, confident start in life. Before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Great Dane might better suit your needs and lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort before they grow up to become the dog of your dreams.

An adult Great Dane may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive and demanding than a puppy. Many of the health problems in Great Danes aren’t apparent in puppyhood but become apparent when the dog is older. With an adult, you know more about what you’re getting in terms of personality and health and you can find adults through breeders or shelters. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that. Adopting a Dog from a Great Dane Rescue or Shelter There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization. Here is how to get started. 1. Use the Web Sites like Petfinder.com and Adopt-a-Pet.com can have you searching for a Great Dane in your area in no time flat. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests (housetraining status, for example) or very general (all the Great Danes available on Petfinder across the country). AnimalShelter can help you find animal rescue groups in your area.

Also some local newspapers have “pets looking for homes” sections you can review. Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears. 2. Reach Out to Local Experts Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Great Dane. That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations. 3. Talk to Breed Rescue Most people who love Great Danes love all Great Danes. That’s why breed clubs have rescue organizations devoted to taking care of homeless dogs . The Great Dane Club of America’s Rescue Network can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. You can also search online for other Great Dane rescues in your area. The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Great Dane home with you to see what the experience is like. 4.

Key Questions to Ask You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a dog. These include: What is his energy level? How is he around other animals? How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors and children? What is his personality like? What is his age? Discover All About Great Dane Training & Breed Information | Great Dane Puppies Home When one thinks of a gentle giant among dogs, the first breed that comes to mind is the colossal Great Dane. This larger than life dog is sweet, gentle, and also currently the Guinness Book of World Records "world's tallest dog". Our fascination with this breed is endless. Their size, personality, and appearance are all magnetic; people can't help but be drawn to them. Where did this majestic breed come from, and what is it made of today? Read on to find out... Great Dane History The background and origins of the Great Dane are steeped in mystery; no one really knows exactly where they did come from. There are even tales of a dog resembling the Great Dane reaching all the way back to the time of the Ancient Egyptians and Ancient Greeks.

As far as current sources know, the breed is thought to be about four hundred years old, and can be seen in paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. It is surmised, though not recorded, that the breed resulted from a cross between a mastiff and an Irish Wolfhound, accounting for the breed's large size. Some think the dog originated in Germany, while others believe it was Denmark. Whichever country the breed did spring from, people throughout Europe called the breed "Great Dane" in various languages, and so it is to this very day. Appearance Of the Great Dane The Great Dane is a very distinctive dog, not only because of its size but also because of its formation and coloring. According to AKC standards a male Great Dane should be at least 30 inches tall at the withers, though preferably 32 inches or more. A male should also weigh in at 120 pounds at the very least. A female should measure 28 inches as a minimum, though preferably 30 inches or more. Any dog measuring less than the minimum is disqualified from showing. The dog also must be well proportioned and solid, not all skinny legs and towering height.

Recently a Great Dane took the title of "world's tallest dog" in the Guinness Book of World Records. "Gibson", from Grass Valley, California, measures 42.2 inches at the withers. That's over 3.5 feet tall! As far as coloring goes there are six acceptable colors for show standards. These include: fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, and mantle. The fawn coat is light tan all over with a blue mask and black eyebrows and black on the tail. The brindle coat is comprised of an orange-tan base with zigzag bolts of black striping throughout. A brindle coat almost looks like tiger striping. The blue coat is a solid grey-blue color that resembles steel. Black of course is a solid coat, with preferably no white markings. The harlequin coat is made up of a base of white with irregular splashes of black. The splashes must be spread out and not look like stripes, and also must not be grey, in order to qualify for showing. Finally, the mantle coloring resembles the coat of a Boston Terrier .

A solid body color is broken by white at the neck, and the face is a mask of the solid color broken by white in the middle. There are others colors bred, such as merle, white, and fawn mantle, but these are not show quality colors and are not purposely bred. Many Great Danes in the US have their ears cropped for looks, but in Europe this practice is banned as cruel to the animal. Originally the practice was done to prevent wolves and wild boars (which were often the quarry of hunts) from grabbing onto the dog's ears, but that is no longer a consideration. Both types of dogs are accepted in showing however, cropping makes no difference as to eligibility. Great Dane Puppy Temperament The Great Dane isn't known as the "gentle giant" for nothing. These colossal, sweet dogs are perfect family members who are great around children and other pets. They are very family oriented, and will want to be with people the majority of the time ( separation anxiety can be an issue at times). The Great Dane tends to be slow to warm up to strangers, but he should never be fearful or aggressive towards them. Surprisingly the Great Dane is not a very energetic breed; in fact they have a rather slow metabolism.

This means that Great Danes usually only need a nice, brisk walk once a day to burn off energy. Unlike some high-energy dogs, such as the German Shorthaired Pointer or the Jack Russell, a Great Dane won't tear your house apart from boredom or excess energy, which is probably a good thing. Imagine the destruction a dog of that size could wreak! Great Dane Health Issues As mentioned before, the Great Dane has a slow metabolism, so he actually requires less food per pound than some more energetic dogs, though because he is so big it all equals out. The average life span of a Great Dane is about 8-10 years, though this can be increased with good breeding, nutrition and care. The reason a Great Dane's life is relatively short is because his massive frame puts a lot of stress on his heart. The breed suffers from congenital problems such as dilated cardiomyopathy, an enlarging and weakening of the heart which results in loss of capability to pump blood. The Great Dane also suffers from hip dysplasia , though this is a genetic condition that can be prevented by not breeding dogs with the condition. If you are going to buy a Great Dane puppy, ask to check the parents out as well and ask about their health.

Any good Great Dane breeder will freely give this information. Finally, the breed also suffers from a condition known as "bloat", which is a painful distending and stretching of the intestines which can lead to death. Some vets "tack" the stomach to the right wall to prevent bloat during routine surgery such as spaying or neutering , while others only perform the procedure if the dog suffers from bloat. Like any pure bred dog, health issues are a concern with the Great Dane that reputable breeders continue to work on. Great Dane Training Like all dogs (especially big ones) the Great Dane requires heaps of puppy socialization and obedience training . A Great Dane who grows up without adequate socialization and training is a recipe for disaster. Great Danes respond best to positive reward based training methods such as clicker training . You won't be needing any harsh punishments or forceful corrections when training your Great Dane. It's a great idea to get along to some puppy kindergarten classes as soon as your Great Dane puppy is old enough. Some training issues that are especially relevant to Great Danes are: Basic obedience training is crucial for establishing voice control over your Great Dane. It will also set you up as the trusted leader in your owner-dog relationship.

If you are planning to train your dog at home this is the training course I use, and recommend that you follow - Clicker Training - Becoming A Supertrainer . Destructive chewing can be an issue as your puppy is growing up and going through the teething stage. You can learn how to prevent or put a stop to most chewing problems here - stop your Great Dane from chewing . Most Great Dane owners and breeders recommend that you crate train your puppy as soon as he/she arrives at your home. I agree with this and believe that crate training is the best way to potty train your Great Dane. Some other common behavior problems that are prevalent in Great Danes are counter surfing your kitchen benches , jumping up on guests and pulling on the leash. Once again you can learn how to prevent or rectify such issues by consulting this training guide - clicker training to solve problem behaviors . Great Danes Are A Wonderful Breed When all is said and done the Great Dane truly is a masterpiece among dogs. If you are looking for a loyal and mild dog with a heart as big as his size, the Great Dane could be the right dog for you. If you have room, both in your heart and hopefully your home, then give a Great Dane a chance.

Good luck searching for your new best friend, may you both bring joy to each other. Check Out These Cute Little Great Dane Puppies! Great Dane Picture at top of page provided by o5com under a creative commons licence Go from Great Dane Training to Puppy Training home page. More articles we recommend: Please consult the services of a Professional Dog Trainer, Behaviorist or Veterinarian before implementing any of the advice contained on this site. Dog Training How did the Great Dane Get its Name and Where Did The Dog Breed Originate? How did the Great Dane Get its Name and Where Did The Dog Breed Originate? 2010.05.06 | Filed Under: Animals Leave a Comment The Great Dane, also known as German Mastiff or Danish Hound, is a breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. The Great Dane is one of the world’s tallest dog breeds, and is commonly referred to as the “Apollo of all breeds”. It is believed that the Great Dane was developed from mastiff-like dogs and originated in Germany. The breed is most likely a cross between the English mastiff and the Irish Wolfhound. The French gave the wolfhound mastiff mix its name, thinking they’d come from Denmark.

However, Germans call them Deutsche Dogges “German dogs”. The Great Dane was named the state dog of Pennsylvania in 1965, and a Harlequin Great Dane is featured in almost all of Lady GaGa’s music videos. Dogs of War. Read More Also, any literature on baseball written in the 1800's does not credit Abner Doubleday with the invention either. But if my... 2016-12-28T23:28:08+00:00 I'm not saying that whoever wrote this did not research this at all but I am saying this explanation of the origins of baseball... 2016-12-28T23:19:30+00:00 IT TOOK ME OVER WINTER BREAK 12 DAYS 3 HOURS 5 MINUTES AND 36 SECONDS. 2016-12-28T02:49:36+00:00 The math here is false. The fundation of how this was worked out is how long it takes to count to 100 in seconds; which is fine...

2016-11-08T22:41:08+00:00 Great Dane Origins | Danes in Distress Great Dane Origins Origins of the Great Dane Breed LARGE DOGS RESEMBLING the Great Dane have been known since the start of recorded history. Carvings on Egyptian tombs dating to 3000 B.C. depict such dogs, and there is a Grecian coin dated 500 B.C. showing a dog’s head much like that of the Dane. Strong and swift, the large dogs were used by Celtic and Germanic tribes as war dogs and to hunt big game. It is claimed that the breed was already established in Britain before the time of the Roman Conquest and that the Romans took these dogs home with them to Rome where they were used as fighting dogs. While both Linnaeus and Buffon, 18th century naturalists who made detailed chronicles of species, give a Danish origin for the breed, it is Germany that claims to be the breed’s country of origin. Certainly this was the country of the Dane’s development.

There it is called the Deutsche Dogge (German Mastiff) and was proclaimed the national dog of Germany in 1876. There is no known reason for it to be named for the country of Denmark. The breed originated from dogs of the mastiff type and was developed to hunt wild boar, guard castles, pull carts, and participate in battle. Since the Middle Ages the German nobility have used the “Dogge” to hunt wild boar and protect their country estates. It is recorded that in 1592 the Duke of Braunschweig arrived at a boar hunt with a pack of 600 male Great Danes! The Great Dane began arriving in the United States in the mid- 19th century. One of the earliest owners of a Dane was the venturesome scout, William “Buffalo Bill” Cody. The breed was first exhibited in 1877 under the breed name “Siberian or Ulm Dog.” It is reported that the first dogs to be shown were ferocious, having been imported directly from German estates where they had been used as attack dogs.

To the credit of American breeders, within a twenty-year period the breed had been transformed into an even-tempered dog still possessed of its protective instinct. Dog writers agree that today the best Great Danes in the world are being bred on this continent. A sight to see:: The big dog crosses the field in an effortless gallop, muscles stretching and contracting, devouring the ground with his long, powerful strides. His sleek black coat glows with vitality; his elegant manner is manifest in every stride. Closer he comes, and the ground shakes under his great size and speed. Ever closer he comes, slows to a trot, then stops. He doesn’t wait to be petted but instead nudges a hand with his giant head. This is the Great Dane, a sleek, athletic dog tightly bonded to humans, capable of great courage, and known among fanciers as “the Apollo of dogs.” The Deutsche Dogge has lived up to its promise as a fierce, courageous canine–a “super dog”–designed to hunt the savage and unpredictable European wild boar, a beast well- armed with formidable tusks that could rip a dog to shreds.

The Dane is obviously more refined than the English Mastiff and the massive, salivating Neapolitan Mastiff or Dogue de Bordeaux of recent cinematic fame, but it most likely came from the same original stock. The mastiff-type dog originated in Asia and has been molded into and influenced several different breeds. There is evidence that the Dane’s more elegant appearance may have come from an infusion of Irish Wolfhound blood and some fanciers claim the English Mastiff as the progenitor of this breed, but the dog may indeed be a descendant of both. Although Dane-like dogs have been portrayed in oriental writings and on Egyptian monuments dated prior to the birth of Christ, the breed is considered to be about 400 years old. The Great Dane Club of America was formed in 1889 and became the fourth breed club to join the American Kennel Club. Breed appearance: The Great Dane is among the tallest of dogs. Males must be at least 30 inches and preferably at least 32 inches at the shoulders in order to compete in the show ring. Females can be about two inches shorter and must be more refined in type than the males. The profile of the Dane is unlike any other breed.

This is a tall dog with a moderately deep chest and a square appearance. The head is rectangular and is set on an aristocratic neck; the ears can be natural or cropped, and the tail is broad at the base, tapers to a point, and reaches the hock joint when carried at ease. The whole dog is well-balanced and well- proportioned, a picture of grace and dignity. Ears: The Danes ears may be cropped (cut and shaped) or not. The breed’s ears naturally fold over and droop along the cheek. Wild boars found these to be handy targets to grab; cropping developed to eliminate the ear flap and thus spare the dog the pain of having it ripped off in a fight. The early ear crops left little to seize; today the crop is cosmetic and sculpts the ear into an upright, pointed appendage that adds to the style of the dog. Cropping, if done, is usually done when the pup is less than eight weeks old as long as he is in good health. If the pup has worms or has been ill, cropping should wait. The cutting should be done only by a veterinarian.

The cropped ears are then taped to condition the cartilage to support an upright ear instead of a droopy one. England has outlawed ear cropping of all breeds, and several European countries have followed suit. Australian owners do not crop Dane’s ears either, and more and more American breeders are questioning the propriety of doing so. as it causes unneccessary pain and suffering for the pup simply for cosmetic reasons (How many wild boars have you seen running around lately?). Unfortunately, however, today virtually all Danes competing in the show ring have cropped ears and it may take some time before the the old school breeders stop balking at the inevitable change, think about the dogs instead of profit and come to their senses. Temperament, behavior, and training: Although he can be somewhat active and needs a period of exercise each day to stay fit, the Great Dane is a great house dog. Puppies can be clumsy, but adults are surefooted and seldom knock things over just by walking around. They like children but may be too much of a challenge for toddlers who are unsteady on their feet.

Although the breed is generally gentle with people, some Danes can be dominant unless taught with a firm hand and some can be aggressive to other dogs and small critters. Obedience training is a must; an energetic 130-pound dog that towers over a preschool child and can easily rest his head on the dinner table must have some manners. Training must be gentle; leash-jerking and harsh discipline may make him distrustful and edgy. Above all, the Great Dane is a people-dog. He needs space to accommodate his long legs and large body, but he likes nothing better than to spend time with his person. A short-coated breed, the Dane needs little coat care. He may get cold in winter, so should not be left outdoors for extended periods If it’s very cold, owners often purchase a sweater for long walks in the park. (Some Danes have a whole wardrobe.) Like most giant breeds, the Dane has a shorter life span than smaller dogs; he lives about 8-10 years if he is healthy. The breed is susceptible to hip dysplasia, bloat, bone cancer, heart disease, and tumors. Care of the puppy begins with careful selection of parents to produce the litter.

Breeding stock should be x-rayed for hip dysplasia and screened for heart problems. Dogs with bloat or cancer in their lines should probably not be bred. The Dane can seriously impact the family budget. This dog needs a larger dish, more food, a higher dose of medicine, a larger collar, etc., and larger is always more expensive. It costs more to spay or neuter a big dog, too. Those who can cope with or prefer a large, aristocratic dog will do well with a Deutsche Dogge. This is a people-oriented dog, loving and kind, playful and even spirited – a true companion dog. The Great Dane is a picture of style and grace quite unlike any other breed today and has a distinct personality which has endeared these ‘Gentle Giants’ to anyone who has ever been privileged to have one as a companion.

Question: What country do Great Danes come from?
Answer: Germany